Eastbourne young people urged to have their say on policing through new game

Police and crime commissioner for Sussex Katy Bourne wants people to get more involved and voice their concerns before she makes her police and crime plan for 2021.

On December 8 Ms Bourne launched the game-like public survey that will supplement her usual #TalkSussex programme of public consultations and face-to-face meetings so that even more residents can have their say in next year’s policing budget.

She says she is giving residents the opportunity to tell her what policing priorities matter most to them through a timed game where players have to assign ‘priority tokens’ to the eight major strands of police work in the community.

Once you have assigned all your tokens you are asked whether you would be willing to pay more locally so that Sussex Police can continue to deliver on the priorities important to you.

Results of the game will then be compared to see what other residents think.

Ms Bourne said, “It is an interesting way to put the public in the driving seat of policing.

“This game will hopefully help them think about the importance of policing all priority areas and how challenging it can be to set a budget that enables Sussex Police to tackle all types of criminality and safeguard the vulnerable whilst delivering to the priorities of local people.”

All data will be collected until the game finishes on January 10 – then Ms Bourne will use results to create her annual plan.

Ms Bourne said, “I want to ensure that all local communities are represented in my next police and crime plan. In the past, we know that the majority of responses to our online polls are from residents aged 55 and over so I really want to hear from younger people as well.

“All views will be reflected in my decision-making and will help shape the future of Sussex Police. Make sure to have your say today.”

Anyone wanting to access the game can find it at: https://www.sussex-pcc.gov.uk/policing-challenge